-
I spent 2019 Christmas in Europe.
Vienna had a ton of Christmas markets leading up to Christmas.
Budapest had a few and was pretty spirited as well, though everything was closed for actual Christmas (Eve or Day, I don’t recall) (including most food!).
The two are a half day’s travel via train away from each other.
The Budapest Festival Orchestra does a special holiday concert on 12/26 every year where the concert audience picks the pieces they want to hear, if that’s your thing.
Budapest also has one of the world’s largest outdoor ice skating rinks during the holidays.
I haven’t personally stayed, but Park Hyatt Vienna is very well-regarded.
The Andaz is in a quiet location but underrated, especially at its price point.
Budapest’s Parisi Udvar (Hyatt) was great, but I stayed before the major category change.